Riga, Latvia – The XXVII Nationwide Latvian Song and XVII Dance Festival witnessed a powerful display of support as the Latvian Diplomatic Choir proudly carried the national flags of Latvia and Ukraine during the participants’ parade. The act aimed to symbolize Latvia’s unwavering commitment to stand with Ukraine in its battle against the aggressor state of Russia.
In a significant response to the choir’s public appeal, the organizers of the Song and Dance Festival heeded their request to include the Ukrainian national anthem during the “The Field. The Road of Song” concert. This powerful gesture demonstrated solidarity with the Ukrainian people who are courageously and selflessly fighting against Russia, which continues to commit new war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The Latvian Diplomatic Choir has a history of actively supporting Ukraine through its participation in concerts and charity events. Conductor Katrīna Jēkabsone emphasized the choir’s enduring commitment, stating, “We will continue supporting Ukraine until victory because their fight is our fight as well. The performance of the Ukrainian national anthem by the joint choir of the Song Festival will be an unprecedented act of resolute moral support, forever etched in the history of the Song and Dance Festivals.”
Established on 26 January 2016, coinciding with the 95th anniversary of the international recognition of the state of Latvia, the Latvian Diplomatic Choir comprises Latvian diplomats, Ministry of Foreign Affairs employees, their families and friends, as well as foreign diplomats. During the festive parade, the choir members donned a vibrant array of folk costumes representing the cultural and historical diversity of Latvian regions, while foreign diplomats proudly wore the traditional attire of their respective countries.
